A tooth abscess is an infection that affects the inside of the tooth and often results in severe pain. In fact, it is one of the most common causes of toothaches. So, if you’re suffering from relentless toothaches that last for days, it might be a good idea to see your dentist and get to the root of the issue. If you do discover that you have a tooth abscess, it’s important to learn as much as you can about it so you can understand your treatment options.
How Do Tooth Abscesses Occur?
Untreated tooth decay is one of the most common reasons why people get tooth abscess. Trauma to the tooth such as breaking or chipping can also result in a tooth abscess. Other conditions like gingivitis or gum disease can also cause a tooth abscess if left untreated for too long.
The enamel of your teeth protects the roots from bacterial infection. But when there’s decay or cracking, the enamel can no longer prevent the bacteria from entering the pulp that’s inside the tooth, resulting in an infection. In more severe cases, the infection may even spread from the root to the supporting bones of the tooth and result in serious problems.
Possible Signs of Tooth Abscess
Tooth abscesses show up in the form of throbbing pain or an ache in the tooth, sometimes spreading to the bone around it. You may even experience sharp, shooting pain while chewing if you have this condition. It may be difficult to pinpoint exactly which tooth is infected as the pain tends to spread across the entire mouth. Some other common symptoms are:
Increased sensitivity to hot and cold
Swelling of the lymph nodes, which can cause difficulty swallowing
Fever
Red, swollen gums
Foul breath
What are Your Options?
If you experience some of the common symptoms mentioned above, you might have a tooth abscess. It’s obvious that the condition shouldn’t be left untreated. So, it would be wise to consult anemergency dental clinic Indianapolis immediately and get your tooth abscess treated.
Since the condition is caused by an infection, your dentist may try to drain the abscess. This means that you will need to undergo endodontic surgery or a root canal treatment. Through these procedures, the dentist cleans the canal of your tooth to remove the bacteria. They will then fill it and shape it before they seal the space. After this, the dentist will make the necessary restorations to your tooth so that it remains protected as it was before. They may recommend getting a dental crown.
However, this procedure will only be viable when the tooth can still be saved. If the infection is too severe, the dentist may no longer be able to save your tooth. In this case, they will perform a tooth extraction. This will allow the abscess to drain through the socket.
Depending on your condition, your dentist may also recommend making an incision in the gum tissue to drain the abscess. You will also be provided with antibiotics that will help in fighting the infection. In situations where you can’t see a dentist immediately, you can relieve the pain and discomfort using over-the-counter pain medication and by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water.
A tooth abscess is no laughing matter and if you think you may suffering from one, contact a dentist immediately. An untreated tooth abscess can lead to many more serious consequences that could require a more extensive intervention.